Helping out the animals

Looking for a way to help animals? Lend a hand to one of these world-renowned charities.

ASPCA

Where: United States History: This animal protection organization was the first of its kind, established in 1866. What they do: The organization's focus is preventing cruelty to animals, but they also organize pet adoptions, work with local shelters and offer educational services to help people better care for their animals. How you can help: Donate your time or make a financial contribution. More information: www.aspca.org

WWF

(formerly known as the World Wildlife Fund) Where: International History: With offices in more than 90 countries and more than $1 billion dollars of investment in the protection of wildlife, WWF has spent five decades protecting animals and nature. What they do: From education to fundraising and partnerships with big business, WWF is trying to stop the destruction of local habitats. How you can help: Donate your time or make a financial contribution. More information: www.panda.org

One World Wildlife

Where: United Kingdom History: With the slogan, "We share one earth, saving them is saving ourselves," One World Wildlife is a newer organization devoted to saving the world's animals, include those living in our local habitats. What they do: The organization works to save animals from dangerous situations and to protect their natural ecosystems. How you can help: By donating or adopting/sponsoring an animal (you can choose from a wide selection of animals to support, from exotic to domestic), you'll be able to say you're making the lives of animals worldwide happier and healthier. More information: www.oneworldwildlife.org

Wildlife Conservation Fund

Where: International, United States History: Founded in 1895, the Wildlife Conservation Fund has been working to protect wildlife around the globe for more than a century. Their commitment? To protect 25 percent of the world's biodiversity. What they do: The organization has forged one of the most comprehensive animal charities in the world. They currently manage about 500 projects, run education programs and run five of New York City's zoos. How you can help: Donate to one of their campaigns or volunteer your time with one of their locally affiliated organizations. More information: www.wcs.org

Canadian Animal Assistance Team (CAAT)

Where: Canada History: Founded in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, CAAT sent 82 veterinarians and technologists to Louisiana to rescue the animals (including hundreds of cats and dogs) that were displaced by the devastating storm. What they do: They provide education on the health needs and care requirements for domesticated animals and work with community disaster response teams to develop animal rescue plans. How you can help: Make a financial contribution. More information: www.caat-canada.org